‘National leader’: UCF graduate programs get recognition in U.S. News and World Report

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is celebrating its newest rankings out this week in U.S. News and World Report.

The respected publication rated 13 of UCF’s graduate programs in the Top 50 nationally, the school announced.

“Across our academic enterprise, we are investing in exceptional faculty, expanding research capabilities and deepening industry partnerships — all with the goal of preparing our students to excel in high-impact careers and to help address the world’s most pressing challenges,” UCF Provost Michael Johnson said in a statement.

Nine UCF graduate programs in engineering and computer science ranked in the Top 50 among all public universities, the school said.

“The U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings recognize the high quality of UCF’s aerospace engineering graduate program, which advanced seven spots and now is among the top 40 in the nation,” UCF said in a press release.

“UCF’s rise in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools rankings reflects our strategic commitment to becoming a national leader in engineering,” Johnson added.

The graduate programs getting accolades also included UCF’s emergency and crisis management program, which was named No. 1 in the nation, with counselor education landing at No. 9 and nonprofit management placing at No. 15.

In addition, public management and leadership earned the No. 21 spot, while public finance and budgeting was ranked No. 27. UCF’s public affairs graduate degree was No. 46.

UCF also received recognition for its health-related programs, which address a critical shortage in Florida.

UCF’s health care management program ranks No. 41 in the country, with physical therapy at No. 42 and speech language pathology at No. 48.

“UCF is the ideal home for graduate students looking to advance their careers and gain new skills in those fields and many others,” the school said in a press release. “In addition to working alongside world-class faculty, students benefit from the university’s location in Orlando and strong partnerships with industry.”